Is it safe for trucks to make U-turns?
The U-turn is one of the deadliest and complex maneuvers to execute. And it’s even more perilous when it is made by a big rig. Trucks are long, heavy, and hard to steer. And a truck driver who executes a U-turn creates a hazardous situation for themselves and other road users. Here are some very important reasons why truck U-turns are universally dangerous.
The No Uncontrolled U-Turn Rule
Truckers are generally cautioned against making a U-turn unless it is essential and safe. Even if it is safe to do so, the ‘no uncontrolled U-turn’ rule is very clear: “No trucker should make a U-turn without a spotter who can offer them an extra pair of eyes and safely guide them through the maneuver.” However, it is rare to find a spotter in the middle of a busy road.
The safest alternative to a U-turn is to find a safe and open space, do a three-point turn, and get back on track. Open parking lots can be safe areas for doing this. Alternatively, the trucker can exit the highway, cross over the next bridge, and turn back. They can also go around the block and safely head back.
The Dangers of Truck U-Turns
Here are reasons why truck U-turns pose considerable risks to all road users:
1. The Time a U-Turn Takes
One of the primary reasons why truck U-turns are dangerous is time. It can take up to 30 seconds for an 18-wheeler to complete a U-turn. If the truck gets stuck on the shoulder of the road, the turn may take even longer. During this time, the truck may block several if not all traffic lanes, which can lead to tragic accidents.
For example, if you are driving at highway speed, you may not anticipate any driver making a U-turn. An unexpected U-turn leaves you with little or no time to react, and you may get into a fatal T-bone accident or under-ride accident.
2. Reduced Driver’s Visibility
U-turns create multiple blind spots around the truck, which no mirror or backup technology can alleviate.
3. Limited Lighting and Visibility
Making a U-turn at night, in fog, or rain is even more disastrous. Other road users may not see what the trucker is doing, which heightens the risk further.
The Hoffmann Law Firm Is Here to Help!
Have you been hurt in an accident involving a trucker making a U-turn? Our experienced St. Louis car accident attorneys are ready to help. We have extensive experience helping car accident victims get their rightful compensation and can help you too. Call us today at (314) 361-4242 for a free case evaluation.
The U-turn is one of the deadliest and complex maneuvers to execute. And it’s even more perilous when it is made by a big rig. Trucks are long, heavy, and hard to steer. And a truck driver who executes a U-turn creates a hazardous situation for themselves and other road users. Here are some very important reasons why truck U-turns are universally dangerous.
The No Uncontrolled U-Turn Rule
Truckers are generally cautioned against making a U-turn unless it is essential and safe. Even if it is safe to do so, the ‘no uncontrolled U-turn’ rule is very clear: “No trucker should make a U-turn without a spotter who can offer them an extra pair of eyes and safely guide them through the maneuver.” However, it is rare to find a spotter in the middle of a busy road.
The safest alternative to a U-turn is to find a safe and open space, do a three-point turn, and get back on track. Open parking lots can be safe areas for doing this. Alternatively, the trucker can exit the highway, cross over the next bridge, and turn back. They can also go around the block and safely head back.
The Dangers of Truck U-Turns
Here are reasons why truck U-turns pose considerable risks to all road users:
1. The Time a U-Turn Takes
One of the primary reasons why truck U-turns are dangerous is time. It can take up to 30 seconds for an 18-wheeler to complete a U-turn. If the truck gets stuck on the shoulder of the road, the turn may take even longer. During this time, the truck may block several if not all traffic lanes, which can lead to tragic accidents.
For example, if you are driving at highway speed, you may not anticipate any driver making a U-turn. An unexpected U-turn leaves you with little or no time to react, and you may get into a fatal T-bone accident or under-ride accident.
2. Reduced Driver’s Visibility
U-turns create multiple blind spots around the truck, which no mirror or backup technology can alleviate.
3. Limited Lighting and Visibility
Making a U-turn at night, in fog, or rain is even more disastrous. Other road users may not see what the trucker is doing, which heightens the risk further.
The Hoffmann Law Firm Is Here to Help!
Have you been hurt in an accident involving a trucker making a U-turn? Our experienced St. Louis car accident attorneys are ready to help. We have extensive experience helping car accident victims get their rightful compensation and can help you too. Call us today at (314) 361-4242 for a free case evaluation.